Self-storage units are a great solution for people looking to store their excess belongings or items that they don’t have space for in their homes or offices. However, there are certain items that you should never put in self-storage, as they may be hazardous or pose a risk to others. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 10 items that you should avoid storing in self-storage units.

10 items you should never put in self-storage:

1. Perishable food items

One of the most important things to avoid storing in a self-storage unit is perishable food items. These items can quickly go bad and attract pests such as rats, mice, and insects. Pests can not only cause damage to your belongings but can also infest other units in the facility, causing a nuisance to other renters. In addition, rotting food can produce unpleasant odours, which can be difficult to get rid of and can linger for a long time. As a general rule, you should only store non-perishable food items such as canned goods in a self-storage unit.

2. Hazardous materials

Hazardous materials are another type of item that you should never store in a self-storage unit. This includes items such as chemicals, gasoline, propane tanks, and other flammable materials. These items pose a serious safety risk to other renters and can potentially cause fires or explosions. Moreover, storing hazardous materials is illegal in many cases and can lead to legal consequences.

3. Firearms

It’s important to note that storing firearms in a self-storage unit is generally not allowed, and it is illegal in some states. Firearms require special handling and storage conditions, which cannot be provided in a regular self-storage unit. Furthermore, firearms can pose a safety risk to other renters if they fall into the wrong hands.

4. Illegal items

It may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that you should never store illegal items in a self-storage unit. This includes items such as drugs, stolen property, or other contraband. Storing illegal items can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and the forfeiture of your belongings.

5. Living things

Self-storage units are not meant for living beings, including animals and plants. It’s important to never store living things in a self-storage unit, as they require specific environmental conditions to survive. Furthermore, keeping living things in a self-storage unit is often against the facility’s rules and can result in fines or even eviction.

6. Valuables

While self-storage units are generally safe and secure, it’s best to avoid storing high-value items such as jewellery, cash, or collectibles. These items are at a higher risk of theft or damage, and it’s often better to keep them in a more secure location such as a safe or bank deposit box. If you must store valuables in a self-storage unit, be sure to choose a facility with strong security measures such as surveillance cameras, alarms, and secure locks.

7. Flammable items

Flammable items such as fireworks, propane tanks, and gasoline should not be stored in self-storage units. These items can be a serious fire hazard and can potentially cause explosions, putting other renters and their belongings at risk. If you need to store flammable items, look for a facility that offers specialised storage solutions with proper ventilation and fire suppression systems.

8. Wet items

It’s important to avoid storing wet or damp items in a self-storage unit, as they can cause mould and mildew to grow, which can damage your belongings and other units nearby. If you need to store items that are wet, be sure to dry them thoroughly before placing them in storage. In addition, choose a facility with climate-controlled units, which can help prevent moisture buildup.

9. Medical supplies

Medical supplies such as medicine or medical equipment should be properly disposed of or stored in a climate-controlled environment. Storing medical supplies in a regular self-storage unit can lead to damage due to temperature fluctuations or exposure to moisture. Furthermore, storing expired medicine can pose a risk to others, as it may be taken accidentally or deliberately.

10. Personal documents

While it may be tempting to store important documents in a self-storage unit, it’s best to keep them in a secure location such as a home safe or a bank deposit box. Important documents such as passports, birth certificates, and social security cards are difficult to replace and can lead to identity theft if they fall into the wrong hands. Moreover, storing personal documents in a self-storage unit can make them vulnerable to damage from moisture, pests, or theft. If you must store personal documents in a self-storage unit, be sure to use a fireproof and waterproof container to protect against loss or damage. Additionally, it’s important to keep an inventory of the documents you are storing and to keep a copy of the inventory in a safe place outside of the storage unit.

In conclusion, self-storage units can be a great solution for storing excess belongings, but it’s important to be aware of the items that you should never store in them. By avoiding the items listed above, you can help ensure the safety of your belongings and others around you. If you have any questions about what can or cannot be stored in a self-storage unit, be sure to consult with the facility staff to avoid any potential problems.

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